Leeds United sign ex-Saints trainee Ariyibi

Phil Hay

Leeds United have taken a tentative step towards resolving their shortage of natural wingers by signing former Southampton trainee Gboly Ariyibi until the end of the season.

The 18-year-old received a short-term deal after an appearance for United’s Under-21s at Thorp Arch last week and he is already training with Brian McDermott’s senior squad.

Ariyibi was raised in the USA and joined Southampton’s academy as a 10-year-old in 2005.

The Premier League club released him at the end of last season and he has undergone a number of trials since, including one with Bolton Wanderers.

McDermott has been devoid of out-and-out wingers - players he relied on heavily while manager of Reading - throughout his time at Leeds, and the United boss saw enough talent in Ariyibi to sign him for the rest of this term.

McDermott said: “He’s only 18 and we kind of knew him already.

“He played in a couple of games and took part in some training sessions and he looks like he’s got a chance.